Sapphire Princess, helpful tips, secrets, ideas, etc

[Smokeyham]

Thanks to everyone who has posted such great hints here, and especially to 2010_Cruisers for summarizing the hints and keeping everything in good order!

 

I was sorry to hear that the Wake Bar is scheduled to be removed in the January, 2012 refit. It looked like the quiet sort of place which I seek out. Does anyone have suggestions for other quiet locations on the ship, where you can go to read a book, or have a drink and enjoy watching the sea?

[2010_cruisers]

Thanks to everyone who has posted such great hints here, and especially to 2010_Cruisers for summarizing the hints and keeping everything in good order!

 

I was sorry to hear that the Wake Bar is scheduled to be removed in the January, 2012 refit. It looked like the quiet sort of place which I seek out. Does anyone have suggestions for other quiet locations on the ship, where you can go to read a book, or have a drink and enjoy watching the sea?

 

Was told sky walkers during the day is nice and calm

[2010_cruisers]

last updated Aug 14,11 (11:54 pm) pacific

 

Sapphire Princess Tips-Suggestions Sheet:

 

As for the "colored" carpet...red is the port side (I remember it like port wine) blue is starboard.

 

dial DINE telephone line or in person at the dining reservations table set up on the first day of the cruise (The service in the other dining rooms was hit or miss and rather slow at times. I would recommend making reservations in advance if dining before 6:30. Overall the food was very good and if you don’t see anything you like on that evenings menu you can always choose from the always on the menu selections)

 

On one or two of the afternoons, they serve an old fashioned British lunch complete with fish and chips and Guiness.

 

It is in one of the dining rooms and is very enjoyable. Look for the announcement in the daily printout.

Fosters oil can beers are available for $6.50. They are not advertised but available at all the bars.

 

Francisco B. is a bar waiter in the Promenade lobby area (Crooner's bar I think). Francisco would stop by tables with tricks or puzzles to solve. He also did a magic show in the Crew Talent show one evening. Go by and say hi to him. He's very entertaining and very good!

 

If you like to walk, skip the track and walk the loop on deck 7/8.

 

The television stations on Princess are outstanding. They have many movie channels with current movie titles.

 

Regarding soups tended to be salty (so just do not start adding salt right off the bat without tasting things)

 

Buffet coffee was awful, so if you want fresh brewed, get the coffee card.

 

Don't forget to buy a future cruise credit before leaving the ship it will serve as your down-payment + you will get on board credit for your next cruise...a win/win situation.

If you buy the Ultimate Kids Soda card try a mock strawberry daiquiris, they are great

Power Hour was from 8pm until close. The drinks were a blue margarita, strawberry daquiri, pina colada, singapore sling and a long island iced tea.

 

You can send yourself casino credits which were great to cash out when we were going on shore for an excursion. This helped us from having to carry large sums of money. You just take your voucher(s) to the casino and cash them when needed.

Sabatini’s was wonderful but a word of caution, don’t eat anything else all day because the portions are huge!

If you like your non-alcholic beverages why not purchase a Ultimate Kid Package. UKP. But anyone can buy one! Was $56.35 pp for the week and it is used sodas, fresh squeezed orange juice, smoothies, mocktails, etc

 

The Wakeview bar, located below Club Fusion. Not much of a view but a good place to get away from the crowds. (...and, after a pre-dinner drink you can get from the Wakeview Bar to the International Dining Room without having to go up the spiral staircase, walk across the stage, through Club (con)Fusion, back down to Fiesta Deck and through the front entrance by going through the 'secret' door fore of the Wakeview heads.) You come into the aft of the dining room - behind a partition in a waiters' area. Be careful... and give them the 'rite of way' (unless you want to be wearing someone's dinner

 

Do take advantage of the teak loungers on the Promenade deck for a quiet read (or nap or watching the water go by.

 

Do visit the Lobby Bar and get your brewed coffee. If you enjoy a nightly cocktail this is also a good place get to know the bartenders and waiters. It's not an International cafe, but they do have a few plates with the wine flights and cookies in the afternoon.

 

Do find your way up to the deck over the bridge for terrific views. No secret door, just go forward on Deck 15.

 

You can get waffles from the ice cream counter at breakfast time just outside the Horizon Court. The breakfast menu in the dinning room seems limited, but get creative, they will make most any type of omelet you can imagine or any combinations.

 

They will walk around with trays of pastries in the dinning room too. Keep an eye open for the cookie cart being pushed around the pool area during the afternoons. You will want to watch for the special food being offered outside the Horizon Court on some days, examples are special pastas, oriental/sushi buffet or exotic chef creations depending on their whim.

 

Breakfast and lunch are served in the International Dining Room for anyone who wishes to eat there for those meals. There is a nice menu and you will be served by the wait staff. We enjoyed eating there over the buffet in the Horizon Court. Next to the Passenger Services desk there is a computer where you can swipe your key card and get a print out of your account statement -- any time! Good to check once or twice during the cruise.

 

The library has a nice selection of books and board games (e.g. scrabble) that you can check out so you needn't haul these along.

 

You can order breakfast to be delivered to your room by completing the breakfast card in your room and hanging on your outside cabin door knob before retiring for the evening. Preprinted choices on the breakfast card are for a Continental type breakfast BUT you can pencil in omelets, scrambled eggs, bacon, etc and it will be delivered.

 

Skywalker's Nightclub is a great place to read during the day - lots of light, quiet, and great views!

 

The Lotus Pool in the middle of the spa is a great place to get away. It is open to all passengers, whether or not they are using the spa"

 

Orange or Grape Juice ‘it is complimentary at breakfast time (except fresh squeezed OJ). After breakfast hours, there is a charge, even for regular (non fresh squeezed) juice.

 

Headphones are a must if a movie is playing in the "Calypso Pool". There's free popcorn at the "Calypso Pool" during the movie.

 

About the champagne tower / waterfall - watch it once, take a photo if you can. It is a novelty to experience at least once. (it is a bit underwhelming now, but it is still a Princess tradition).

 

Watch out for the Baked Alaska Parade (on one of the formal nights also).

 

Some food suggestions from the MDR were: chicken Florentine with a mushroom and melted cheese topping and a maybe try that spicy shrimp dish. For dessert why not try the Loveboat Dream (for the chocoholic in you)

 

Near Neptune Pool on Lido Deck, Prego Pizzeria features fresh-excellent pizzas are found here from 11:00am to 5:00pm.

 

Trident Grill: on Lido Deck from 11:00am until 6:00pm, this is the best place to order a burger!

 

The Santa Fe dining room offers the main dining room menu, but also prepares guacamole for you table side.

 

Pacific Moon dining room on Deck 6 pulls Asian themes into play. The overall effect is a very upscale and unpretentious. Best place to find Mandarin Duck, Tiger Prawns, fresh sushi, spring rolls, and pot stickers.

 

The Savoy is located aft port on Plaza deck 5. A signature is the prime rib.

 

Vivaldi dining room serves Italian dishes to include ravioli and foccacia!

 

In-Between Meals: Patisserie (7:00am to 11:00pm at the Lobby Bar in the Grand Plaza on Promenade Deck), Sundaes Ice Cream Bar (nominal fee 11:00am to 6:00pm.), Wine and Caviar, Afternoon Tea (3:30pm to 4:30pm - in the main dining rooms. Pastries and finger sandwiches accompany an excellent cup of tea), Room Service (24 hours a day)

 

more Quiet places Lotus Spa-Sun Deck (Deck 15), Library- Plaza Deck (Deck 5), Writing Room-Plaza Deck 5

 

$150 'The ULTIMATE SHIP TOUR is awesome,last 3-4 hours, they gue gifts at the end and serve some champagne & hors d'oeuvre

 

Chef's Table tour and dinner. It's $75/pp, but well worth the cost. It includes a special dinner made by the head chef and hosted by the maitre'd. You'll get a special galley tour while the galley is in full production where you'll eat some scrumptious appetizers and have free-flowing champagne.

 

They serve free ice cream at the buffet around 3:30 each afternoon

 

Beware that the thought of awesome food- a late night snack at the buffet may or may not be a let dow (they have very few items then ad nothing to significant), maybe best to order room service then. (Actually the late night buffet isn't that bad - it is snack-y kind of food - chips and guac, desserts, cookies, hot dogs, fruit, some entree types of food - but there was a fairly good variety and if you're just looking for a snack before bed)

 

Read the Princess Patter newsletter every evening when it is delivered to your cabin. Bring a highlighter pen to mark the events that you want to catch the next day.

 

If you are collector, try the shot glasses at Grapevine Wine Tasting - there are 6 different metal designs on them

 

The minute you board the ship and put your bags in your room...Don't go to the Buffet!! First of all it is crowded, second of all... Go make all your reservations! Dining, Spa, and Excursions!! helpful travel tip: take binoculars and extra memory for your digital camera

 

The Lotus pool is an "Adults Only" pool. Pacific Moon (Ginger Prawns), The Savoy(pork chops) and the Santa Fe(Faijitas)...all yummy.

 

For the SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM LOVERS......go to the SUNDAES ICE CREAM BAR on LIDO DECK 14 mid-ship between the NEPTUNE POOL and the CALYPSO POOL...unlike some cruise ships who charge an extra fee for ice cream temptations outside of the "buffet" offerings, there is NO CHARGE for the ice cream here!

 

...if you prefer your SOFT SERVE "sundae" style in a dish rather than a cone, be forewarned...there are NO DISHES at SUNDAES ICE CREAM BAR...but...you can easily grab a bowl from the adjacent HORIZON COURT BUFFET and the server at SUNDAES ICE CREAM BAR will be happy to fill the bowl for you and add some toppings if you planned on using the Wifi connection, then bring your laptop instead of IPad, for those who have the IPad and planned on using it. There's a constant disconnection problem with the IPad. RC internet staff informed me that it's IPad interference problem and there's nothing they can do about it.

 

Princess Spa tip: There will be drawings throughout the cruise for free services. Most of the time, you have to be there at the appointed time to win. It is worth showing up. This is especially true on sunny days in port where drawings may be offered before leaving port. Some people will still be off the ship and enjoying the sights. That will increase your odds of winning.

 

Staying Informed for Children: The Fun Zone, the home of kids' activities, has their own newsletter detailing specific times and places of the kids' events. It's available just outside the pick-up/drop-off areas for the kids.

 

If you have more then a couple of sea days consider the thermal spa pass. They only sell a limited number so get it as soon as you board the ship. It is a great way to relax.

 

If you have anytime dining and want to eat late there is never a wait after 7:45. If you do that you could arrange to have the same table every night and get to know our wait staff.

 

If you like coffee the coffee card is a great investment. It allows you to have unlimited fresh brewed coffee and 12 specialty coffee drinks. The mass produced coffee in undrinkable.

 

We did not attend but I believe the English lunch is in the Savoy dining room.

 

On the Lido Deck where the Pizza and Hamburger Stands are ( good quick lunch and tasty) they are open in the morning - one is a made to order omlette station, the other is a belguim waffle station - good start to the morning with out having to deal with the buffet!

 

One thing I kept reading about Sapphire Princess was to avoid uncovered mini suites. I'm so glad I ignored that advice, some in our group did not want to be that far aft on the ship. The uncovered balconies were absolutely fine. We did not care that some people may have looked down onto our balcony, we just chatted with them. You have to remember that we could also look up onto their balconies The extra cabin space was well worth the uncovered balcony...we're not the type of people who are doing anything that would be

 

Laundry fees: Last week on the Sapphire they were also only $1.00.

 

Auto-tip charge for inside, ocean view and balcony cabins increased Wednesday on the Star Princess from $10.50 to $11.00 a day.

 

Formal nights were Monday and Friday.

 

There were about 5 drink specials every day after 8PM for $4.99.

Use a battery operated or wind up clock, back lit (instead of a plug in clock).

 

Sometimes, ordering a drink at dinner can take a while in Anytime dining, so order right in the beginning to give you some time to enjoy it before food comes.

 

If this matters to you....take note that appetizers and desserts were better than the main course.

My best tip for those who choose Anytime is to make reservations on the first day for the rest of the week – they fill up quickly.

Sabatini’s was wonderful but a word of caution, don’t eat anything else all day because the portions are huge!

The Jeopardy game show is fun to attend and participate in.

 

 

Packing TIP: They said the self serve AND valet laundry would not be available until our final day at sea. They closed the laundry rooms the last 2 days of the cruise, so might as well pack more than enough undies and essentials clean clothes left for travel home. About clothing: 'I wore jeans during the day with long sleeve shirts. I wore this with heavy fleece jackets in the morning on the Promenade Deck (with earmuffs, scarf and gloves and sunglasses to block the wind). The sun comes up early like 4:15 am and it is glorious to be out at the front of the ship, but dress warm

 

Cabin E732 - We had this cabin last week on the Sapphire, right at the back of the ship - really large, lots of room and just the right place to be while sailing in Tracy Arm. Would go for this cabin every time if possible, a little noisy whilst docking, but a small sacrifice to make for fabulous views

 

Go to the internet Cafe (which is to send a free 'eCard to people when u r away ad not for email time).

 

Also, At the Pursers Desk ask for a Deck . Possibly FREE Playing Cards are given if asked (or maybe a small fee

Put the wastepaper basket or a small hand carry piece of luggage between the door and the bathroom. It will keep the door barely open to allow enough light into the cabin so you can make your way safely in the night if necessary.

The best times to get on the Internet is between midnight and six am. The worst time is from noon until midnight.

Ask for the Princess slippers. They are promotional give-aways

 

Buy only one soda card. Use it for both of you. Go to different bars.

 

There is a change machine in the laundry room so you do not need to take quarters - or get change at the Pursors desk. I think the cost was $1 each for washer, dryer and detergent (but it may have gone up), you might want to consider taking the 3 in 1 laundry sheets instead of using detergent.

 

Very often there are no cartons of skim milk at the buffet in the morning. Just ask and they will go and get them for you. Same with different flavors of yogurt.

 

" And let me not forget to mention the 9 AM announcements every day reading what was in the Patter listing all the events and times and places. What an intrusion for people who didn't want to get up that early! They give out the daily Patter let people read it. Who could remember all that information anyway

 

" DH is the gambler in the family and he says that the Sapphire has both of those tables. There are two tables of 3 Card Poker. One is usually open during the day and both in the evenings".

 

If the change machine in the laundry is broken or empty, pick up the house phone and call the Passenger Service Desk and they will send out the man who takes care of the laundry. This is what the man told me to do when I was talking to him about the machine always being empty and I had to go to the casino to get quarters. He said to just call. He was in the laundry room tending to the machines.

The thermal suites are downstairs from the spa. It has hot stone loungers to lay on, rain showers, sauna's, etc. It costs a certain amount for the cruise, depending on how many days the cruise is. If they have space available, and they always seem to, they will sell you a day at the suites. I think it's $20 pp for the day.

Expect the $3.99 or $2.99 drinks served on happy hour to be fairly weak.

 

 

 

• But - don't miss the Belgium waffles served in the mornings at the Ice Cream Bar!
  
• If you pick the Italian pay restaurant - Sabatini's. Be prepared - it can take 3 hours (and sometimes even up to 17 courses)
  
• Entertainment: Go early to the lounges to get a good seat for the comedians as they fill up fast!
  
• Update regarding booking the chef's table: The next day at 9 AM, we got a card to meet with the Maitre'D to discuss rules for attending and we were in. You ca do a non-alcoholic tour for $60 each, but if you like wine, the $75 was a good deal.
  
• Blow dryers: it is noisy and not very strong, we suggest bringing a hairdryer if you have longer hair that will need more power.
  
• If you like Lobster tails (which are on Friday nigh) just know they are small - so order as many as you wish.
  

 

• 
  other PCL tips:
   
  • Complementary plate of assorted stuffed olives at the martini bar.
  • Pre purchase internet minutes before you leave you’ll get free minutes based on the package you pick.
  • Escargot!!!
  • Insulated travel coffee mug
  • One of the dining rooms will be open for lunch on embarkation day.
  • Volcano dessert, available on children's menu basically a huge banana split.
  • When you open the little door under the TV for the plug, well, there are extra outlets not being used. But not if it’s a flat screen
  • Ask for Egg crates, top sheet, robe, slippers, bed topper, and upgraded pillows.
  • Always ask if there is a charge.
   
  Coffee Card for $31 is of ok to good value
   
  • Under your bed is more bedding.
  • Cocktails for $3.99 in all the bars after 8.00pm (which included certain bottled beers, Pina Coladas, Long Island Iced Teas and Singapore Slings as well as "well drinks"). A suggestion to pay $7.50 for a double sounded like a better deal.
  • Request that the steward remove the soft drinks and bottled water from inside and on top of the fridge to make room for our own drinks.
  • Request extra hangers.
  • Passenger Service Desk (also called the Hotel Manager) will make a hole in our card which we hang on lanyards. They will also do that for you in the casino and give you a lanyard.
  • There is another electrical point under the bed.
  • Bring a roll of quarters and laundry supplies.
  • If you decide to eat in a specialty restaurant you may want to make the reservation for the last night
  • Sabatini’s reservation for the night that they are serving Italian food in the main dining room.
  • Reservations for the steak house ask to sit at the counter overlooking the kitchen area, fun to watch the staff put it altogether and see the teamwork involved.
  • The Fettuccine Alfredo!!! Plus it’s served in a Parmesan bowl, a crispy melted cheese bowl.
  • Bring along a small electric alarm clock.
  • On the first day, we simply ask to see the week’s menus and look over what’s happing for the week. Then make plans for the week there and then. The MD or any head waiter can show them to you.
  • Can go up to the Spa to shower.
  • Take 3 or 4 of those black metal binder clips or plastic clothes pens and hang them on the bottom edge of the shower curtain.
  • Computer station in the Future Cruise booking area or Internet Cafe, free e-postcard, 300 character limit but you could send more than one message to the same email address if you need to get a longer message out.
  • Befriending the maitre'd, the head waiter, and everyone who takes care of you.
  • Appetizers and sushi are free in the Vines wine bar but not the cheese.
  • When you get off of the elevator to go to your room, one side of the ship on every passenger deck the hallways have blue carpeting. The other side has blue carpeting but there is some red in that side.
  • Duck liver pâté appetizer.
  • Various lamb entrees.
  • Last night of the cruise, head up to the Horizon Court (or the International Café) for some pre-travel treats. Cookies are always available. We put a couple cookies in our zip loc bag(s) for our travel home the next day.
  • Ask for anchovies on your Caesar salad at dinner.
  • Take a pop-up mesh hamper for your dirty clothes.
  • Empty luggage? The Steward will stow it for you.
  • Find out when/where the Muster drill is and go get your life jacket. Take it with you a little ahead of time and "beat the crowd".
  • Highlighters for Princess Patters and highlight times/ places/ activities, etc for the next day
  • Sticky notes for when spouse sleeps in to leave a note on the MIRROR or DOOR
  • Magnet to put it on the door.
  • Water bottles for on shore.
  • Clothes line in the bathroom for swimming clothes
  • On disembarkation day if you are trying to get on an elevator to get down to the disembarkation decks, push the up button, ride up and then down as the up elevators are not full.
  • We take our empty water bottles up to the buffet and fill them from the water spigots there (late at night just before we go to bed) oh and we might pick up some desserts to eat too lol!!!
  • twice-baked goat cheese soufflé,
  • Lobster and Scampie Dinner with a side of Alfredo.
  • Purex 3-in-1 strips
  • air freshner
  • waterproof case, that will go around your neck and will hold your ID, cruise card, credit card etc. while swimming/snorkeling in port.
  • empty beach bag a place to put all your purchases
   
  3:30 Horizion Court's fresh warm cookies and brownies to die for!
   
  PCL offers stretching, abs classes and Pilates, yoga and spinning for $12/class or $30 for three classes.
   
  if you have time in Skagway, visit the Jewell Gardens
   
  If you are nice-cordial with your room steward, they might leave an extra ice bucket ready in our stateroom filled with ice.
  if you like King Crab, Tracy's Crab Shack is the place to go in Juneau. Second best dinner I had on the trip!
  Bring EXTRA cheap wire hangers, as the ship never supplies enough in the closet.
  USE room service for BREAKFAST! IT IS SO nice NOT to rush around in the morning.
   
  Imagine having your food and a drink on the second level around the covered pool area, I think it's called the Conservatory, there are loungers and hardly anyone goes up there.
   
  They had a waffle station at the ice cream place in the morning and the waffles were fabulous.
   
  Best play for a "good" cup of coffee on-board, lobby bar on Plaza deck in the Atrium
   
  In case you like using the hot tubs late (they are typically open most of the day but close around 11:30 pm)
   
  The only secret to getting in the dining room without a jacket is wearing a LONG SLEEVE SHIRT.
   
  In the SPA area - Yes, the locker rooms have lockers. You give your room card to the person at the spa desk and he or she gives you a key to one of the lockers.
  A tip.... don't be afraid to ask for seconds or even thirds.
   
  Also, bring clothes for layering (ear bands also are good and a pair of thin gloves - just in case).
  Bring binoculars.
  We bring our own quarters in case the machine is out so we don't have to go searching for working change machine.
   
  We also bring a couple of the Purex 3-in-1 sheets a few other posters mentioned.
   
  I like that it's not a liquid or powder and is a detergent that won't spill in our luggage. Plus the 3-in-1 sheets are a detergent, softener, and anti-static sheet. It also makes everything in the luggage smell nice as well.
  If you want to read at night on your balcony, bring a light - just in case your outside light does NOT work.
   
  We love theLotus Spa: The Swedish Massage – Full Body Massage, 50 min $119.
   
  For a variety of other items, or smaller portions - some adult eaters also prefer the children's menu to enjoy (at times)
  

 

• If you love creamy Alfredo pasta ask for it to be served as a side dish with the bowl
  
• breakfast you can ask fried banana and peanut butter sandwich.
  
• vegetarian dish - eggplant fritters
  
• For people with other dietary needs, ask for any sugar free dessert options
  
• I would say that the afternoon tea is delightful, and the Asparagus/Bacon/Hollandaise appetizer was the best thing I ate all week. The Baked Alaska was terrific, and people really dressed well for formal nts.
  
• The soda card was soooooooo worth it, as was the coffee card. The pizza is mediocre, but the burgers are very good. Be prepared to be astonished at the amazing Tracey Arm.
  
• To go with the AK theme: One day they had an Alaska theme lunch station. Lots of fish and even reindeer chili.
  
• Our favorite part, though, was cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord on Wednesday morning. Be prepared to wake up early that day--you will pass the first glacier at about 6am and approach Sawyer Glacier around 8am. The scenery is overwhelming.
  
• If you have any doubts about your cell service being available at a reasonable cost, get an ATT Tracfone before you head out and leave the contact info for your family. ATT works in all US Ports we are sailing to
  
• Suggestion: We enjoyed comedy musician Steve Moris on one night and comedy magician Lorenzo Clark on another. ( You should arrive 30 minutes early if you want a seat to their shows.
  Tip: If you want to attend a lecture,could even order cocktails during their lectures
  

 

 

 

--------------Corrections......changes...are below:---------

 

You can order breakfast to be delivered to your room by completing the breakfast card in your room and hanging on your outside cabin door knob before retiring for the evening. Preprinted choices on the breakfast card are for a Continental type breakfast BUT you can pencil in omelets, scrambled eggs, bacon, etc and it will be delivered. No guarantees that you will get what you write in.

Orange or Grape Juice ‘it is complimentary at breakfast time (except fresh squeezed OJ). After breakfast hours, there is a charge, even for regular (non fresh squeezed) juice. There are many juices available such as apple, cranberry, prune and other available for breakfast in the DR or the HC if you ask.

Headphones are a must if a movie is playing in the "Calypso Pool". There's free popcorn at the "Calypso Pool" during the movie. The Sapphire will not have MUTS until next January so no movies at the “Calypso Pool”

Pacific Moon dining room on Deck 6 pulls Asian themes into play. The overall effect is a very upscale and unpretentious. Best place to find Mandarin Duck, Tiger Prawns, fresh sushi, spring rolls, and pot stickers. No longer true - the separate menus were discontinued about two years after launch.

The Savoy is located aft port on Plaza deck 5. A signature is the prime rib. No longer true - the separate menus were discontinued about two years after launch.

Vivaldi dining room serves Italian dishes to include ravioli and foccacia! No longer true - the separate menus were discontinued about two years after launch.

They serve free ice cream at the buffet around 3:30 each afternoon. Not since the soft serve was made free at Sundaes.

Read the Princess Patter newsletter every evening when it is delivered to your cabin. Bring a highlighter pen to mark the events that you want to catch the next day. You can get an extra copy of the Patter at the Passenger Services Desk on Fiesta deck

Pacific Moon (Ginger Prawns), The Savoy(pork chops) and the Santa Fe(Faijitas)...all yummy. The Vivaldi’s special dish is Osso Bucco

if you planned on using the Wifi connection, then bring your laptop instead of IPad, for those who have the IPad and planned on using it. There's a constant disconnection problem with the IPad. RC internet staff informed me that it's IPad interference problem and there's nothing they can do about it. There was a tip on another thread on how to close programs on the iPad to free up memory. This might correct the WiFi problem

 

Extra Pointers are:

1) Dress in layers. Weather in Alaska can change on a dime. Bring clothes that are easy to layer on and easy to layer off. Its not nearly as cold in Alaska during the summer as most people seem to think

 

2) Bring either an umbrella or rain jacket with a hood. Most people don't realize that Southeast Alaska, where most cruising is done is well known for rain. In fact Ketchikan averages a 1/2 inch or rain a day!

 

3) Bring a pair of binoculars. Powerful binoculars are obviously better than weak ones, but weak ones are better than no ones! In order to get a good view of wildlife in the water or along the shoreline, a pair of binoculars is a must.

 

4) Bring sunglasses. This may seem weird, but boy was I sorry when I went dog sledding and was naieve enough to leave my sunglasses in my backpack back at basecamp. If you are planning on landing on a glacier or going to a dog sled camp these will come in handy. When everything is as bright as can be and completely snow white everywhere, you'll be grateful you brought sunglasses!

 

5) Bring lots of film for your camera or enough memory for your digital camera. It seems that almost everywhere you turn in Alaska there is some new amazing, wonderful and absolutely breathtaking sight. You don't want to be stuck missing that perfect Kodak moment because you didnt bring enough film. If thats a case, then you're gonna have to hope that your memory is good enough to remember all that you saw in Alaska

 

6) Take advantage of seeing and doing truly Alaskan activities. Try a helicopter ride and land on a glacier, go dog sledding, go bear watching, go salmon fishing, go crabbing, go to a wildlife preserve, go to a native village, go see the totem poles. You don't want to go home and regret not seeing the things that make Alaska truly unique and special. This may be a once in a lifetime opportunity, don't let it pass you buy.

 

7) Read and research the cities and towns you'll be stopping at. There is so much history in each town and a plethora of activities. Pick the one that most interests you. Make a list of the things you want to do and see, then pick a cruise based upon that list. Alaska is more about the cities and the scenery than it is about the cruise line or ship

 

8) Most of all, go and enjoy this truly unique experience. Alaska is the great wide open the great unknown. You've never experienced anything like this great land before. Every turn of the head brings new experiences, new pictures. Get off the ship enjoy the city and the locals. Make the most of your chance to experience this great place.

 

* Coffee in the Dining Rooms, Sabatini's, Sterling Steakhouse, the Buffet and Room Service is from syrup and is free (you may want to tip your Room Service waiter). Fresh brewed coffee is available at Crooners Bar on Promenade deck and the Lobby Bar on Plaza deck. Regular is $1.25 + 15% gratuity or Large is $1.75 +15% gratuity. With a coffee card $29 +15% gratuity you get 15 specialty coffees and unlimited fresh brewed coffee.

[2010_cruisers]

Let us entertain you

From production shows and Hollywood hits to fabulous entertainers and enrichment courses, there's a whole world of entertainment waiting for you onboard.

• Original Productions

 

Spectacular shows in our theater are a hallmark of every cruise with Princess. Here are a couple of the shows scheduled for your upcoming cruise:

I GOT THE MUSIC: Featuring the ships' orchestra and our vocalists, this show presents a tribute to the icons of popular music. Do You Wanna Dance?: A musical journey highlighting the many styles and forms of the art of dance.

• Onboard Media

 

Your cruise features a selection of TV programs, special satellite events and recent Hollywood hits. Here’s a preview of what you’ll see on your upcoming voyage:

Source Code: Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan. Directed by Duncan Jones. Rated PG-13, 93 Minutes. Kung Fu Panda 2 : Voices of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman. Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Rated PG, 91 Minutes.

• Guest Entertainers

 

At Princess, we invite some of the world’s best entertainers – including comedians, magicians and guest singers – onboard to delight our guests. Here’s a few on your upcoming cruise:

Steve Moris: Performing Over 20 Years with The Beach Boys Lorenzo Clark: Amazing Comedy & Funny Magic…as seen on HBO, Fox and Comedy Central.

• Scholarship@Sea®

 

Expand your horizons with a fascinating enrichment course in everything from ceramics and photography to computers and cooking. Here’s a sample of our offerings on your voyage:

Julius Talarico: Alaska Natural History and Wildlife

[1Turbo]

"You can send yourself casino credits which were great to cash out when we were going on shore for an excursion. This helped us from having to carry large sums of money. You just take your voucher(s) to the casino and cash them when needed."

 

1) How do i send myself casino credits?

before i board the ship? while on the ship? can i use a credit card?

 

2) if i buy the 'soda and more card' before i board, how/where do i pick it up?

Edited August 15, 2011 by 1Turbo

[2010_cruisers]

"You can send yourself casino credits which were great to cash out when we were going on shore for an excursion. This helped us from having to carry large sums of money. You just take your voucher(s) to the casino and cash them when needed."

 

1) How do i send myself casino credits?

before i board the ship? while on the ship? can i use a credit card?

A. On the Prince Web Site - you can purchase casino credits, its under your cruise personalizer and under the section ' on board experience' ad just follow along until you buy the amount you want. It will automatically be on your acct. when you board (as you meet the embarkation clerks). So, if you buy $500, you will hae $500 onto your acct. (ok). It can be used for the casio, or you ca cash some of it it to hae cash to walk around with.

 

2) if i buy the 'soda and more card' before i board, how/where do i pick it up?

A. When yoiu embark, they will notice you have the soda card or whatever you bought it - they will either give you a sticker to add to your card right away or there will be one in your stateroom waiting for you. Regardless they will ensre you get your card having the right stickers to prove u paid for it (smart to bring cop of your email confirmation payment also) Ok

[witnwool]

My friend recently cruised on RC and they found that wine prices varied greatly on board. They paid $14.00/glass at the Wine bar, but found the same wine in a casual dining venue for under $10.00/glass.

We are aboard the Sapphire Princess for the Sept 2nd sailing to Alaska. Do the wine prices vary aboard ship?

Thank you for the great list. We have printed it out and will use it!!

[2010_cruisers]

Hope this helps, ok. Cheers! :):):)

 

http://www.princess.com/learn/onboard/gifts_services/cellars_culinarydelights/princess_cellars/index.jsp

[2010_cruisers]

Wine $5.50-7.75 + 15%

 

Beer: prices at a bucket buy 5 get 1 (deck bars only) or buy the bottle.

 

Martini: 6.25-$6.75

[2010_cruisers]

C H A M P A G N E A N D S P A R K L I N G W I N E

.

CHAMPAGNES

.

MUMM, CORDON ROUGE, BRUT

A classic dry, well-balanced champagne. Reims, France

MOËT & CHANDON, EXTRA DRY

Good persistency of bubbles with a fruity nose. Napa Valley

VEUVE CLICQUOT, BRUT

A full-bodied robust sparkler. Reims, France

MOËT & CHANDON, DOM PERIGNON

Classic, refined aristocrat of French Champagnes. Epernay, France

.

.

BLUSH / ROSE WINE

.

WHITE ZINFANDEL, WOODBRIDGE

Light wine with fresh berry aromas. Napa Valley

WHITE ZINFANDEL, BERINGER

Medium-dry, fresh, clean and fruity. Napa Valley

 

W H I T E W I N E

.

.

CHARDONNAY

.

WOODBRIDGE, TWIN OAKS

Rich, soft and well-balanced. California

SYLVESTER, KIARA RESERVE

Single vineyard, estate grown, superior wine. Paso Robles

CALITERRA

A wine full of tropical and peach aromas. Valle Central, Chile

ROSEMOUNT

Intense fruit flavors, a well-balanced wine. S.E. Australia

BARON HERZOG

Award-winning kosher white wine, suitable for Passover. California

CUVAISON

A full-textured wine with flavors of fresh lime, apple, kiwi and spice.

Excellent finish. Napa Valley

.

FUMÉ BLANC / SAUVIGNON BLANC

.

FETZER, FUMÉ BLANC

A smooth wine with subtle herbal garden flavors. California

NOBILO, SAUVIGNON BLANC

Light and crisp, full of citrus flavor. Marlborough, New Zealand

.

REISLING

.

NIERSTEINER, GUTES DOMTAL

Light-styled, fruity with fresh flavor. Rheinhessen, Germany

PIESPORTER, GOLDTRÖPFCHEN

One of the most popular German wines. Mosel, Germany

.

ITALY

.

VERDICCHIO, FAZI-BATTAGLIA

Pale gold in color with a dry, crisp character. Marche, Italy

GAVI DEL COMUNE DI GAVI

Soft, mild, light-bodied and fruity. Lazio, Italy

.

FRANCE

.

POUILLY-FUMÉ

Dry, perfumed and fruity. Loire Valley, France

CHABLIS, PREMIER CRU

Full of character with zesty citrus notes. Chablis, France

 

.

 

R E D W I N E

.

Cabernet Sauvignon

.

WOODBRIDGE, TWIN OAKS

Rich, soft and well-balanced. Napa Valley

SANTA CAROLINA RESERVE

Classic Chilean style with a superb long finish. Maipo Valley, Chile

ROBERT MONDAVI, PRIVATE SELECTION

A full-bodied wine with vivid fruit expression. North Coast

ROSEMOUNT

Full-bodied with abundant Cabernet flavors, smooth and delicious. S.E. Australia

CLOS DU BOIS, RESERVE

An outstanding wine from one of the premier Cabernet regions in the world. Alexander Valley

DON MELCHOR

Elegant and full-bodied, this is a Wine Spectator Top 100 wine. Puente Alto, Chile

CAYMUS

An exclusive, full-bodied wine. Napa Valley

ROBERT MONDAVI, NAPA RESERVE

From Mondavis Reserve Cellars, a truly great Cabernet. California

MERLOT

.

ROUND HILL

Medium-bodied with a hint of toasty oak. Napa Valley

SYLVESTER, KIARA RESERVE

Gold medal winner, soft finish. Paso Robles

FETZER, VALLEY OAKS

Barrell aged with ripe cherry flavors, with hints of blueberry and toasty-vanilla. North Coast

BENZIGER

Full-bodied wine tasting of rip berries and plums. Sonoma

ROBERT MONDAVI, CARNEROS MERLOT

Grown in the Carneros region where the cool marine climate is ideal for this grape. Carneros

SCHUG, HERITAGE RESERVE

From the creator of the famous Insignia,

a classic highly-allocated Merlot at great value. Sonoma

SHIRAZ / ZINFANDEL

.

WENTE ESTATE, SYRAH

Rich flavors of ripe blackberries and boysenberries. Livermore Valley

KENWOOD YALUPA, ZINFANDEL

Medium-bodied with fresh berry aromas and a smooth finish California

ROSEMOUNT, SHIRAZ

Aromatic with a fine well-defined ripe fruit taste. S.E. Australia

BENZIGER

Full-bodied wine tasting of rip berries and plums. Sonoma

SEGHESIO, ZINFANDEL

A classic zinfandel with gentle spice and sweet ripe berry tones. Sonoma

FROGS LEAP, ZINFANDEL

Often referred to as the All American Variety, full of charming fruit and spice. Napa Valley

PINOT NOIR

.

ROBERT MONDAVI

Blackberry and raspberry aromas with spice and vanilla undertones. North Coast

LA CREMA, PINOT NOIR

Aromas of black cherry and licorice with plum flavors. Sonoma

CALERA, PINOT NOIR

Featured in the Top 100 Wines of the World. This is one of the best Pinot Noirs that you can buy. Central Coast

J. WINE COMPANY

The aroma begins with a concentrated cherry fruit, dark plums and light floral notes. Russian River

 

.

 

D E S S E R T W I N E

.

ERRAZURIZ LATE HARVEST, SAUVIGNON BLANC (375ML)

Notes of honey and golden raisins add depth and richness to the fruity, citric

Sauvignon Blanc characters. This is dessert in a glass. Casablanca, Chile

 

.

 

N O N - A L C O H O L I C W I N E

.

ARIEL, WHITE ZINFANDEL

Has the same pleasing fresh fruit taste as any White Zinfandel with alcohol. California

ARIEL, BLANC

Dry and fruity, with a natural delicate taste. California

[1Turbo]

Just bought a few hundred casino credits.

 

anyone know if there are any games (ie: video poker) that are near 99.5% payout?

What are their rules for blackjack? (ie- 3:2 or 6:5 for blackjack, how many decks in shoe, stand or hit on soft 17, etc?)

 

also got the 'Unlimited Soda & More' Package

Edited August 18, 2011 by 1Turbo

[witnwool]

Wine $5.50-7.75 + 15%

 

Beer: prices at a bucket buy 5 get 1 (deck bars only) or buy the bottle.

 

Martini: 6.25-$6.75

 

 

Glad that the prices are consistent aboard ship. I would hate to feel like I had to "shop around" for best prices! Way to go Princess!

[Toto2Kansas]

anyone know if there are any games (ie: video poker) that are near 99.5% payout?

Not on any ship I have ever sailed on. ;)

[2010_cruisers]

From a recent passenger, here are their thoughts:

 

First, the positives to the Sapphire. Embarkation and disembarkation was a snap. If you're staying in Seattle, staying an extra day and walking off is totally worth it. This was the first time that I had just walked off and I couldn't believe how easy and NOT stressful it was. Just to go to Pike's Market that afternoon made staying an extra day in Seattle worth it!

 

 

The only place we felt crowded was the exercise facility, which was not large enough. We had to run outside on the track one day because the line for the machines was out the door. But everywhere else, there were no lines and the ship really felt like it was "small ship cruising." The Conservatory has an indoor pool and two hot tubs, with plenty of loungers up top in case it gets cold. The aft pools were never crowded, and in fact, the water was warm in most of the pools. There were tons of children swimming in the water. I was very surprised at the number of young children, babies, and teenagers throughout the boat. They never overwhelmed but the mix of families, couples, singles was great. There were plenty of diverse nationalities on board as well, which I personally love about cruising.

 

Now for the downsides. The food was NOT up to Princess standards. We booked this cruise because we had enjoyed Princess so much two years ago, and I had been dreaming about their fettuccine Alfredo. I won't be dreaming about it again. Had it one time, and it was cold and rubbery. Thought that must be a mistake and ordered it the last night of the cruise and it was the same. The beef was generally good. Some of the deserts were good. Sabatinis was just ok, the fish and desert were great, but our server didn't offer to bring us a different appetizer when we had barely touched ours. Save your money. The buffets many times were better than plated service at dinner. Thankfully, the pizza bar and grill was very good, but only open until 7. In the dry-dock apparently they are installing a 24 hour pizza stand. The beef wellington and lobster night (last formal night) were the best food we had on the cruise. Excellent. But the point was that not all of the meals were excellent, and we are not foodies or food snobs, we just expect good food from Princess, and in many cases we were disappointed.

 

The service was also NOT classic Princess standards. I am a seasoned cruiser, have sailed on many lines, and what always impresses is the service. This crew seemed either apathetic or just did not notice when you needed something. They told me to go to my room to get a towel. No one knew (or was eager to help) me find a blanket one day when I was cold. In fact, they bordered on rude when I came back to ask for help a second time. A few days, the deck hands were nowhere to be found at an extremely busy indoor pool. When lunch was over, we set our trays down beside us and in the two hours we were there (and this happened multiple times) no one came to get our empty plates. Our Captain's Circle party lasted all of forty minutes and included watered down drinks and lots of "selling" you on Princess.

 

I am not a cruise snob. If I have to bus my own table, really, I don't mind. But I had higher expectations for Princess from my previous cruise, where your waiter gets you water when you sit down for lunch, or at least comes up at some point during your lunch and asks you if he can get you water. I don't know that we will cruise with Princess again. With so many wonderful cruising options, we were glad to see Alaska, which was beautiful and exciting (and a great honeymoon spot, we found out!) but we might try a different cruise line for our next cruise

Edited August 21, 2011 by 2010_cruisers

[2010_cruisers]

• I keep my iPhone with me almost constantly on a ship, and use the notes app to keep track of crew that gives particularly good service (name, country and position). It makes it so easy to recall those peoples' names when I fill out the online survey, and I am much more apt to do it.
  
• If you have a paper - or a note pad, u ca do the same also. Do nt just get their first name, try ad get their last name also and write it down on a comment card also.
  

:):):)

[lovevacadays]

Thanks to everyone who has posted such great hints here, and especially to 2010_Cruisers for summarizing the hints and keeping everything in good order!

 

I was sorry to hear that the Wake Bar is scheduled to be removed in the January, 2012 refit. It looked like the quiet sort of place which I seek out. Does anyone have suggestions for other quiet locations on the ship, where you can go to read a book, or have a drink and enjoy watching the sea?

 

As 2010 indicated try Skywalkers. The Wake Bar really isn't all that great. You will get a much better view from Skywalkers. Also, the Sapphire has a wide Promenade deck with full loungers. Even on a warm weather cruise like the Mexican Riviera it is easy to find a lounger and sit and watch the ocean. It's quiet out there as well except when leaving ports as there are typically alot of people out there. I suppose on an Alaska cruise it might be quite chilly on the Promenade deck but not sure.

 

Also, just looking at the post where someone was unhappy about the food and service on the Sapphire recently. Perhaps it was that particular cruise. My niece and I sailed her the first week of May and thought the service was really good. We met lots of nice staff and crew.

Edited August 24, 2011 by chloedmom

[SouvenirSoul]

John, hope you don't mind but thought I would post this. I kind of organized everything you put together (thank you!!!) into categories. Some of the helpful extra details probably got lost but my eyes & brain needed to separate all the info. (A couple of people on Facebook were asking for my list so I thought this would be the easiest place to put it & just give the link.)

 

Embarkation

 

• At port, drop off luggage (packaged up drinks, etc.) with handlers (tip). Extra tags available. Park car & walk to terminal.

o Smith Cove lot = park at lot, shuttle with luggage or drop off first, then park & shuttle?

 

o photos of terminal:

http://picasaweb.google.com/jimcareycruises/Pier91Seattle#5335126637648170146

• Check in at terminal (signs directing you where to go) = line to present passports & documents

o Will be given your plastic Sail & Sign cards = room key/ identity (?).

• Then directed to board the ship. = follow the signs or wait in line.

• Security check (shoes stay on). Any carry-on items will go through the x-ray scanner just like at the airport and you will walk through a metal detector.

• follow lines until you get to where they are boarding

• agent will put Sail & Sign card in a machine and your picture is taken to be embedded into card = id to get on & off ship.

• Once you board the ship, your first photo of many is taken. Adds up!

• Away you go…..

 

 

 

What to do First (options)

 

• Search for cabin & drop off carry-ons.

• Meet steward & request items like extra pillows, egg crate for beds, etc.

• Make reservations for dining, spa, excursions, etc. if you want. Or, check table assignments for correct sizes / seating arrangements.

• Gather Patters (newsletter & paperwork) & go for lunch

o

Buffet = crowded

o Dining room should be open (might only be until 1:30?)

o Drinks served = extra $ but can sign for them on your account

• Purchase coffee & soda cards.

• Treasure Hunt (card in “papers”) = check in (stamp) at various places on ship to enter draw for prizes

• Find out where muster drill is & get life jacket a little ahead of time to beat crowd

o mandatory Lifeboat drill is usually held just after sailing... but before the first seating in the dining room... that's usually in the 4:30pm time frame

• Clorox wipe room (door handles, light switches, etc.)

• Go to Spa for tour / book treatments. Also, internet minutes if needed / not pre-purchased.

• Unpack & get ready for dinner / night-time entertainment

• Pool. / Photos / Drinks / whatever your little heart desires

• Sail Away party on deck.

• Meet-ups = Roll-Call or Facebook

 

 

Good to Know

• Always ask if there’s a charge.

o Not free are: specialty coffee, beverages (soda, drinks, beer, wine), specialty restaurants and "Ultimate" balcony breakfast or dinner, spa, Sanctuary, gelatto at the International Cafe, laundry, pizza delivery, Internet (one the Cafe or WiFi), mini-bar drinks, tips and tours.

o Auto-tip = good to stay on & tip extra when due (room service, dining room waiters (trad dining?) & stewards ($20)

o Many people request auto-tip at 50% & tip personally on top of that. With portion = people behind scenes still get some.

• Read the Princess Patter newsletter every evening when it is delivered to your cabin. Bring a highlighter pen to mark the events that you want to catch the next day. You can get an extra copy of the Patter at the Passenger Services Desk on Fiesta deck

• Staying Informed for Children: The Fun Zone, the home of kids' activities, has their own newsletter detailing specific times and places of the kids' events. It's available just outside the pick-up/drop-off areas for the kids. Evening kids program starts at 7 pm.

• Celebrations (anniversaries / birthdays): sign & balloons in cabin on day asked for – can ask for sooner (e.g. beginning of cruise). Will get card to present to head waiter on day for cake / song.

• Carpets indicate what side of ship you are on:

o “There’s a little RED PORT LEFT in the bottom of the glass.” / BLUE = STARBOARD

o Waves “flow” towards back of ship / where waves came to point = point to front

• elevators, there were two sets of aft and mid-ship elevators, and the call buttons only work on one set, so you would need to push the buttons on both sets to "double your chances" of catching the next elevator. The only problem with everyone doing this is that the elevators are always stopping on empty floors. They also go "ding-dong" when going up, and "ding" when going down. (?)

• Formal nights were Monday & Friday

• Next to the Passenger Services desk there is a computer where you can swipe your key card and get a print out of your account statement -- any time! Good to check once or twice during the cruise.

• Every cabin has a small safe. Each time you close it, you enter a four digit PIN which then must be used to open it. After it locks, the PIN you entered is displayed briefly so you can be sure what you entered.

• Passenger Service Desk (also called the Hotel Manager) will make a hole in our card which we hang on lanyards. They will also do that for you in the casino and give you a lanyard.

• Befriend the maitre'd, the head waiter, and everyone who takes care of you.

• Laundry fees: Last week on the Sapphire they were also only $1.00.

• Self-serve laundry:

o There is a change machine in the laundry room so you do not need to take quarters - or get change at the Pursors desk.

o Passenger Service Desk will send someone to fix change machine / fill it up. Use house phone.

o I think the cost was $1 each for washer, dryer and detergent (but it may have gone up), you might want to consider taking the 3 in 1 laundry sheets instead of using detergent.

• Library:

o Books in the Library are free to borrow, as long as you return them before you leave.

o Passenger book exchange: small cupboard where you can leave your own books you no longer want for other passengers to take.

• Can send yourself casino credits – good to cash out for shore excursions vs. bringing lots of cash onboard.

o sit at a slot machine and insert your cruise card (which is also your cabin key) and ask for money from your account to be loaded to the slot machine. The charge that will appear on your account is the amount you asked for with no service fee added. If you go to cashier a 3% fee will be charged. When you are finished at the slot machine, be sure to upload any remaining money to your cruise card (actually, it is to a ship's computer so if you lose your card, the money is not lost -- the cruise card is the vehicle to identify yourself). Then you can bring your cruise card to the casino cashier and ask to be given cash for the money that has been uploaded.

 

 

Kids

 

• On embarkation day, the Princess Youth and Teen Schedule for the entire cruise will be delivered to your stateroom. If you need more than one copy, please contact your Youth Activities Coordinator.

• Don't miss the orientation and registration meeting on the first night of your cruise. You and your children can meet the Youth and Teen staff and learn more about our exciting shipboard programs. Parents are always welcome to join their children in the Youth and Teen Centers.

•Sea Days: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. / 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm / 7 p.m. - 1 a.m. *

•Port Days: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. †

• * A $5 USD per child/hour group kidsitting charge is applicable from 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. for youth passengers ages 3-12.

† A supervised, complimentary lunch service is available with parent consent

 

In Your Room

• Ask your travel Agent to fax a request for the egg crates for bed tell them you want a top sheet as well, if you don't like the duvet cover without the top sheet.

• If haven’t done above, can ask Room Steward for:

o Egg crates for mattresses (apparently hard) – may have changed to foam toppers

o Top sheets, upgraded (down?) pillows, extra pillows

o Robe, slippers, extra hangers

o Foot stool, extra towels, (?) soap, etc.

o Ice bucket, extra wine glasses (can asked for it to be filled (often)), platters

o Empty out refrigerator to make room for the beverages you brought onboard

• Luggage will fit under bed but steward can also store it for you

• Under your bed is more bedding plus electrical outlet

• When you open the little door under the TV for the plug, well, there are extra outlets not being used. But not if it’s a flat screen (?) - swivel it out to check.

• Bring power bar if you are charging multiple electronics

• Bring extra hangers (cheap wire) in case can’t get more

• USE room service for BREAKFAST! IT IS SO nice NOT to rush around in the morning.

 

 

next section has Tech, Spa, etc.

[SouvenirSoul]

my list cont'd :o

 

Special Places

• The Wakeview bar, located below Club Fusion. Not much of a view but a good place to get away from the crowds. (...and, after a pre-dinner drink you can get from the Wakeview Bar to the International Dining Room without having to go up the spiral staircase, walk across the stage, through Club (con)Fusion, back down to Fiesta Deck and through the front entrance by going through the 'secret' door fore of the Wakeview heads.) You come into the aft of the dining room - behind a partition in a waiters' area. Be careful... and give them the 'rite of way' (unless you want to be wearing someone's dinner

• Do take advantage of the teak loungers on the Promenade deck for a quiet read (or nap or watching the water go by.

• Do find your way up to the deck over the bridge for terrific views. No secret door, just go forward on Deck 15.

• Skywalker's Nightclub is a great place to read during the day - lots of light, quiet, and great views!

• more Quiet places Lotus Spa-Sun Deck (Deck 15), Library- Plaza Deck (Deck 5), Writing Room-Plaza Deck 5

• Imagine having your food and a drink on the second level around the covered pool area, I think it's called the Conservatory, there are loungers and hardly anyone goes up there.

• The library has a nice selection of books and board games (e.g. scrabble) that you can check out so you needn't haul these along.

• About the champagne tower / waterfall - watch it once, take a photo if you can. It is a novelty to experience at least once. (it is a bit underwhelming now, but it is still a Princess tradition).

 

Spa, Pools & Exercise

• Check out the Sanctuary $ (search the boards for description using the word Sanctuary) but you have to get there as soon as you get on board if you want to reserve for the entire cruise.

o Can also go to get tour first to see if you want to book anything.

• Thermal Suites:

o Downstairs from the Spa

o Hot stone loungers, rain showers, etc. Great way to relax.

o Can purchase for entire cruise or by day ($20) or possible half-day (?) for $10. Probably will be told only sell for the week but will sell by day later in cruise.

• There will be drawings throughout cruise for free services (be there to win). Also specials on port days.

• Lotus Pool (adults only) in middle of Spa is great place to get away. Open to all passengers whether or not they are using the spa.

• Can go to the Spa to shower (great if your room is crowded).

• In the SPA area - Yes, the locker rooms have lockers. You give your room card to the person at the spa desk and he or she gives you a key to one of the lockers.

• Can request MP3 player at Sanctuary

• The steam rooms (not the thermal suites) are free. On some ships they are 'outside', in front of the terrace pool (below the Sanctuary), and on others they are inside the spa.

• Hot tubs close around 11:30 pm

• PCL offers stretching, abs classes and Pilates, yoga and spinning for $12/class or $30 for three classes.

• If you like to walk, skip the track and walk the loop on deck 7/8.

• The only place we felt crowded was the exercise facility, which was not large enough. We had to run outside on the track one day because the line for the machines was out the door. But everywhere else, there were no lines and the ship really felt like it was "small ship cruising." The Conservatory has an indoor pool and two hot tubs, with plenty of loungers up top in case it gets cold. The aft pools were never crowded, and in fact, the water was warm in most of the pools. There were tons of children swimming in the water.

 

Entertainment

• The television stations on Princess are outstanding. They have many movie channels with current movie titles.

• The Jeopardy game show is fun to attend and participate in.

• Francisco B. is a bar waiter in the Promenade lobby area (Crooner's bar I think). Francisco would stop by tables with tricks or puzzles to solve. He also did a magic show in the Crew Talent show one evening

• Entertainment: Go early to the lounges to get a good seat for the comedians as they fill up fast!

• There are two tables of 3 Card Poker. One is usually open during the day and both in the evenings.

• Suggestion: We enjoyed comedy musician Steve Moris on one night and comedy magician Lorenzo Clark on another. (You should arrive 30 minutes early if you want a seat to their shows.

• Can order cocktails during lectures / classes (?)

• Most of the evening entertainment is focused on Deck 7, Promenade, with the Princess theater, Crooner's piano bar, Wheelhouse, Explorer's and Club Fusion but, the entertainment on Deck5 in the Piazza also offers an alternative. For a really lovely place to have a pre-dinner or sunset watching cocktail, try the little area outside (aft) of Adagio. Also, Skywalker's offers incredible views if you prefer to be indoors.

• Original Productions: Spectacular shows in our theater are a hallmark of every cruise with Princess. Here are a couple of the shows scheduled for your upcoming cruise:

I GOT THE MUSIC: Featuring the ships' orchestra and our vocalists, this show presents a tribute to the icons of popular music. Do You Wanna Dance?: A musical journey highlighting the many styles and forms of the art of dance.

• Onboard Media: Your cruise features a selection of TV programs, special satellite events and recent Hollywood hits. Here’s a preview of what you’ll see on your upcoming voyage: Source Code: Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan. Directed by Duncan Jones. Rated PG-13, 93 Minutes. Kung Fu Panda 2 : Voices of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman. Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Rated PG, 91 Minutes.

• Guest Entertainers: At Princess, we invite some of the world’s best entertainers – including comedians, magicians and guest singers – onboard to delight our guests. Here’s a few on your upcoming cruise: Steve Moris: Performing Over 20 Years with The Beach Boys Lorenzo Clark: Amazing Comedy & Funny Magic…as seen on HBO, Fox and Comedy Central.

• Scholarship@Sea®: Expand your horizons with a fascinating enrichment course in everything from ceramics and photography to computers and cooking. Here’s a sample of our offerings on your voyage: Julius Talarico: Alaska Natural History and Wildlife

• Purser’s desk may have (free??) playing cards to give out. Or purchase from shop / casino. (used $1)

 

Tech

• Pre purchase internet minutes before you leave – you’ll get free minutes based on the package you pick. Can also be purchased onboard.

o 120 minutes

Item #6038 – $58.95

(Includes 20 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

o 190 minutes

Item #6039 – $78.95

(Includes 40 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

o 310 minutes

Item #6302 – $103.95

(Includes 60 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

• Best times to get online is between midnight & 6 am

• I was advised that the boats strongest wi-fi access points are in the main atrium areas of the ship, so a portable at those locations will get a stronger wi-fi signal.

• If you can wait for port stops, there is free wi-fi access at many ports. Watch for several crew members taking their laptops to shore and sitting along the port shops.

• if you planned on using the Wifi connection, then bring your laptop instead of IPad, for those who have the IPad and planned on using it. There's a constant disconnection problem with the IPad. RC internet staff informed me that it's IPad interference problem and there's nothing they can do about it. There was a tip on another thread on how to close programs on the iPad to free up memory. This might correct the WiFi problem

• Go to the internet Cafe (which is to send a free 'eCard to people when u r away and not for email time). Computer station in the Future Cruise booking area or Internet Cafe, free e-postcard, 300 character limit but you could send more than one message to the same email address if you need to get a longer message out.

• Can surf princess.com at no charge in internet café or on your laptop using WiFi

• To save your minutes download your messages / compose emails offline. Use either Word (copy / paste) or use the Send Later function in your laptop’s email browser. (more info available if needed)

• remember to logoff by putting 1.1.1.1 in the address bar. Not logoff? Maybe it's my browser, I use google chrome (sooo much faster than IE) but I never got the popup on my laptop that had the logoff and the instructions say to logoff by entering that 1.1.1.1 in the address bar and it always worked that way for me. I only get the logoff pop-up when using a PC in the internet cafe, never on my laptop. I just have a button in my "links" bar in the browser that points to 1.1.1.1

• If you have any doubts about your cell service being available at a reasonable cost, get an ATT Tracfone before you head out and leave the contact info for your family. ATT works in all US Ports we are sailing to

 

Before you go

• Princess has the best on board booking program in the industry. If you are enjoying your Princess cruise, and believe that there is any chance at all that you’ll be taking another one within the next 4 years, you’ll want to visit the Future Booking representative on board (hours and location noted in the Patter). Here’s how it works: For just $100 per person, you may reserve any Princess cruise, even though the required deposit would normally be much higher ($250 to $900 per person). You’ll still pay the same cruise fare in the end; it’s just that less money will be tied up until final payment. Also (and here’s the really good part), you’ll get an onboard credit (OBC) when you take the cruise, from $25 to $150 per person, depending on the cabin category and cruise length. If you’re unsure about when/which cruise you might want to take, you can also book an “open booking” onboard, good for 4 years. When you do decide on a cruise to take, you simply call your travel agent and ask them to apply the open booking to that specific cruise, and get the same OBC. All deposits are fully refundable at any time until final payment date.

• Onboard credit is available to stock holders. “The first thing I did when we returned home was to buy 100 Shares of Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Now each time we cruise we get an 8% or 20% dividend.”

• Last night of the cruise, head up to the Horizon Court (or the International Café) for some pre-travel treats. Cookies are always available. We put a couple cookies in our zip loc bag(s) for our travel home the next day.

• On disembarkation day if you are trying to get on an elevator to get down to the disembarkation decks, push the up button, ride up and then down as the up elevators are not full.

 

 

There's a few more miscellaneous notes I didn't bother including, but I'm sure if anyone has read through these 20 + pages, they've probably got them somewhere. Hope this helps someone. :)

[lvhh]

Thanks SouvenirSoul for the recap!!

[2010_cruisers]

my list cont'd :o

 

Special Places

• The Wakeview bar, located below Club Fusion. Not much of a view but a good place to get away from the crowds. (...and, after a pre-dinner drink you can get from the Wakeview Bar to the International Dining Room without having to go up the spiral staircase, walk across the stage, through Club (con)Fusion, back down to Fiesta Deck and through the front entrance by going through the 'secret' door fore of the Wakeview heads.) You come into the aft of the dining room - behind a partition in a waiters' area. Be careful... and give them the 'rite of way' (unless you want to be wearing someone's dinner

• Do take advantage of the teak loungers on the Promenade deck for a quiet read (or nap or watching the water go by.

• Do find your way up to the deck over the bridge for terrific views. No secret door, just go forward on Deck 15.

• Skywalker's Nightclub is a great place to read during the day - lots of light, quiet, and great views!

• more Quiet places Lotus Spa-Sun Deck (Deck 15), Library- Plaza Deck (Deck 5), Writing Room-Plaza Deck 5

• Imagine having your food and a drink on the second level around the covered pool area, I think it's called the Conservatory, there are loungers and hardly anyone goes up there.

• The library has a nice selection of books and board games (e.g. scrabble) that you can check out so you needn't haul these along.

• About the champagne tower / waterfall - watch it once, take a photo if you can. It is a novelty to experience at least once. (it is a bit underwhelming now, but it is still a Princess tradition).

 

Spa, Pools & Exercise

• Check out the Sanctuary $ (search the boards for description using the word Sanctuary) but you have to get there as soon as you get on board if you want to reserve for the entire cruise.

o Can also go to get tour first to see if you want to book anything.

• Thermal Suites:

o Downstairs from the Spa

o Hot stone loungers, rain showers, etc. Great way to relax.

o Can purchase for entire cruise or by day ($20) or possible half-day (?) for $10. Probably will be told only sell for the week but will sell by day later in cruise.

• There will be drawings throughout cruise for free services (be there to win). Also specials on port days.

• Lotus Pool (adults only) in middle of Spa is great place to get away. Open to all passengers whether or not they are using the spa.

• Can go to the Spa to shower (great if your room is crowded).

• In the SPA area - Yes, the locker rooms have lockers. You give your room card to the person at the spa desk and he or she gives you a key to one of the lockers.

• Can request MP3 player at Sanctuary

• The steam rooms (not the thermal suites) are free. On some ships they are 'outside', in front of the terrace pool (below the Sanctuary), and on others they are inside the spa.

• Hot tubs close around 11:30 pm

• PCL offers stretching, abs classes and Pilates, yoga and spinning for $12/class or $30 for three classes.

• If you like to walk, skip the track and walk the loop on deck 7/8.

• The only place we felt crowded was the exercise facility, which was not large enough. We had to run outside on the track one day because the line for the machines was out the door. But everywhere else, there were no lines and the ship really felt like it was "small ship cruising." The Conservatory has an indoor pool and two hot tubs, with plenty of loungers up top in case it gets cold. The aft pools were never crowded, and in fact, the water was warm in most of the pools. There were tons of children swimming in the water.

 

Entertainment

• The television stations on Princess are outstanding. They have many movie channels with current movie titles.

• The Jeopardy game show is fun to attend and participate in.

• Francisco B. is a bar waiter in the Promenade lobby area (Crooner's bar I think). Francisco would stop by tables with tricks or puzzles to solve. He also did a magic show in the Crew Talent show one evening

• Entertainment: Go early to the lounges to get a good seat for the comedians as they fill up fast!

• There are two tables of 3 Card Poker. One is usually open during the day and both in the evenings.

• Suggestion: We enjoyed comedy musician Steve Moris on one night and comedy magician Lorenzo Clark on another. (You should arrive 30 minutes early if you want a seat to their shows.

• Can order cocktails during lectures / classes (?)

• Most of the evening entertainment is focused on Deck 7, Promenade, with the Princess theater, Crooner's piano bar, Wheelhouse, Explorer's and Club Fusion but, the entertainment on Deck5 in the Piazza also offers an alternative. For a really lovely place to have a pre-dinner or sunset watching cocktail, try the little area outside (aft) of Adagio. Also, Skywalker's offers incredible views if you prefer to be indoors.

• Original Productions: Spectacular shows in our theater are a hallmark of every cruise with Princess. Here are a couple of the shows scheduled for your upcoming cruise:

I GOT THE MUSIC: Featuring the ships' orchestra and our vocalists, this show presents a tribute to the icons of popular music. Do You Wanna Dance?: A musical journey highlighting the many styles and forms of the art of dance.

• Onboard Media: Your cruise features a selection of TV programs, special satellite events and recent Hollywood hits. Here’s a preview of what you’ll see on your upcoming voyage: Source Code: Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan. Directed by Duncan Jones. Rated PG-13, 93 Minutes. Kung Fu Panda 2 : Voices of: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman. Directed by Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Rated PG, 91 Minutes.

• Guest Entertainers: At Princess, we invite some of the world’s best entertainers – including comedians, magicians and guest singers – onboard to delight our guests. Here’s a few on your upcoming cruise: Steve Moris: Performing Over 20 Years with The Beach Boys Lorenzo Clark: Amazing Comedy & Funny Magic…as seen on HBO, Fox and Comedy Central.

• Scholarship@Sea®: Expand your horizons with a fascinating enrichment course in everything from ceramics and photography to computers and cooking. Here’s a sample of our offerings on your voyage: Julius Talarico: Alaska Natural History and Wildlife

• Purser’s desk may have (free??) playing cards to give out. Or purchase from shop / casino. (used $1)

 

Tech

• Pre purchase internet minutes before you leave – you’ll get free minutes based on the package you pick. Can also be purchased onboard.

o 120 minutes

Item #6038 – $58.95

(Includes 20 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

o 190 minutes

Item #6039 – $78.95

(Includes 40 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

o 310 minutes

Item #6302 – $103.95

(Includes 60 bonus minutes for

prepurchasing an Internet time package.)

• Best times to get online is between midnight & 6 am

• I was advised that the boats strongest wi-fi access points are in the main atrium areas of the ship, so a portable at those locations will get a stronger wi-fi signal.

• If you can wait for port stops, there is free wi-fi access at many ports. Watch for several crew members taking their laptops to shore and sitting along the port shops.

• if you planned on using the Wifi connection, then bring your laptop instead of IPad, for those who have the IPad and planned on using it. There's a constant disconnection problem with the IPad. RC internet staff informed me that it's IPad interference problem and there's nothing they can do about it. There was a tip on another thread on how to close programs on the iPad to free up memory. This might correct the WiFi problem

• Go to the internet Cafe (which is to send a free 'eCard to people when u r away and not for email time). Computer station in the Future Cruise booking area or Internet Cafe, free e-postcard, 300 character limit but you could send more than one message to the same email address if you need to get a longer message out.

• Can surf princess.com at no charge in internet café or on your laptop using WiFi

• To save your minutes download your messages / compose emails offline. Use either Word (copy / paste) or use the Send Later function in your laptop’s email browser. (more info available if needed)

• remember to logoff by putting 1.1.1.1 in the address bar. Not logoff? Maybe it's my browser, I use google chrome (sooo much faster than IE) but I never got the popup on my laptop that had the logoff and the instructions say to logoff by entering that 1.1.1.1 in the address bar and it always worked that way for me. I only get the logoff pop-up when using a PC in the internet cafe, never on my laptop. I just have a button in my "links" bar in the browser that points to 1.1.1.1

• If you have any doubts about your cell service being available at a reasonable cost, get an ATT Tracfone before you head out and leave the contact info for your family. ATT works in all US Ports we are sailing to

 

Before you go

• Princess has the best on board booking program in the industry. If you are enjoying your Princess cruise, and believe that there is any chance at all that you’ll be taking another one within the next 4 years, you’ll want to visit the Future Booking representative on board (hours and location noted in the Patter). Here’s how it works: For just $100 per person, you may reserve any Princess cruise, even though the required deposit would normally be much higher ($250 to $900 per person). You’ll still pay the same cruise fare in the end; it’s just that less money will be tied up until final payment. Also (and here’s the really good part), you’ll get an onboard credit (OBC) when you take the cruise, from $25 to $150 per person, depending on the cabin category and cruise length. If you’re unsure about when/which cruise you might want to take, you can also book an “open booking” onboard, good for 4 years. When you do decide on a cruise to take, you simply call your travel agent and ask them to apply the open booking to that specific cruise, and get the same OBC. All deposits are fully refundable at any time until final payment date.

• Onboard credit is available to stock holders. “The first thing I did when we returned home was to buy 100 Shares of Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Now each time we cruise we get an 8% or 20% dividend.”

• Last night of the cruise, head up to the Horizon Court (or the International Café) for some pre-travel treats. Cookies are always available. We put a couple cookies in our zip loc bag(s) for our travel home the next day.

• On disembarkation day if you are trying to get on an elevator to get down to the disembarkation decks, push the up button, ride up and then down as the up elevators are not full.

 

 

There's a few more miscellaneous notes I didn't bother including, but I'm sure if anyone has read through these 20 + pages, they've probably got them somewhere. Hope this helps someone. :)

 

GGGGGGGGGGGreat job.:)

[2010_cruisers]

re: Wine

 

All us adults carried two bottles of wine on board. Some of us in our carry-ons; some of us in our regular luggage. Nothing was said by Princess; none was confiscated. We actually were able to carry a glass of wine into the dining room at dinner each night. I was surprised about that. I think our waiter was disappointed about that…because he wasn’t able to make a sale (but…it DID save us a ton of moola!).

Edited August 24, 2011 by 2010_cruisers

[GlendaleCruiser]

Thanks to everyone who has posted such great hints here, and especially to 2010_Cruisers for summarizing the hints and keeping everything in good order!

 

I was sorry to hear that the Wake Bar is scheduled to be removed in the January, 2012 refit. It looked like the quiet sort of place which I seek out. Does anyone have suggestions for other quiet locations on the ship, where you can go to read a book, or have a drink and enjoy watching the sea?

 

 

I have only been on one Princess cruise, so I'm not too familiar with Skywalker's. However, I did see a special on tv or youtube about them removing skywalkers on a retrofit and how it was done.

 

Does the Sapphire have the Skywalker's? Is it coming off at retrofit? We are cruising after the refurb and I am curious.

:confused:

Edited August 25, 2011 by GlendaleCruiser

[GlendaleCruiser]

 

Skywalker's removal on Grand Princess. This is why I think they might do the same to Sapphire?:confused:

[last-time cruiser_09]

to 2010_cruisers ad the rest of you:

 

A big bear hug, thanks Love this thread and am finally printing off my list today. If there is anything more to add, today is the day. Regardless, it has been a pleasure stalking, I mean viewing this thread. It was very informative (even when it a few things got repeated but said in different ways by passengers.) I have a lot to work with now. We all do. Have a great a cruise and to everyone, thanks again.

[Smokeyham]

 

Skywalker's removal on Grand Princess. This is why I think they might do the same to Sapphire?:confused:

 

I thought I read someone else's post which had a list of thing which were changing on Sapphire Princess during the refit, but understand that the removal of Skywalkers is not one of those things.

 

Can anyone else confirm this?

 

I would hate to see that go. It was one of the reasons we are choosing that ship for Alaska!